When should you replace your water heater? Know the signs and avoid the risk of a flood and expensive repairs.

August 10th, 2012

Did you know that the average expected age of a water heater is 8-12 years?  Towards the end of their life expectancy, water heaters give signs to indicate that you should make a replacement.

Some signs are more obvious than others.  For instance, most water heaters have a date listed on the water heater, and if you are past that date, it could be time to replace.  A less obvious sign can be in the temperature of your water.  If you turn on the hot water and the water stays cool for longer than you have noticed in the past, this might indicate a looming replacement.  Here are some other ways to tell if you might need to replace your water heater:

  • Check how long the hot water is actually lasting
  • Check for puddles around the hot water heater to make sure there are no leaks
  • Try listening to your water heater. Make sure there are no unusual noises
  • Look for indications of external corrosion
  • Check for discolored water from your faucets
  • Check for low water pressure at your faucets

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms in a water heater that is older than 8 years, it might be more cost effective to replace it.  Avoid the possible catastrophe of a water heater failure, a flood in your home and major damage; call Levy & Son today to find the most cost effective ways to replace your old water heater.

Levy & Son
11024 Indian Trail DallasTX75229 USA 
 • 972-241-8655
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Water heaters – tank vs. tankless

March 10th, 2012

Conventional storage tank water heaters have been used in commercial and residential applications since the early twentieth century. While most household electronics have taken great strides in terms of new technology and efficiency, the traditional tank water heater has not. Most consumers do not need a lesson in the inefficiencies and problems associated with traditional water heaters as we have all experienced them at one time or another. With energy costs continuing to rise and interest in household technology and environmental stewardship at an all-time high, the concept of “on demand” or tankless water heating has increased dramatically in popularity during the past decade.

The general premise behind a tankless water heater is to only heat water “on demand” as it is needed. This eliminates the need for a storage tank and dramatically increases energy efficiency. Almost every major shortcoming of a conventional water heater is addressed by a tankless system. When deciding between a tank water heater and a tankless water heater, most people take into consideration the convenience of not having to wait for hot water, not running out of hot water, along with, cost, efficiency and long-term maintenance.

The equipment cost of a tankless water heater is about the same as a high-quality tank heater, the difference in cost typically comes from the additional materials involved for installation.

Tankless water heaters have proven to be more efficient. 20-40% of energy consumed by a traditional tank heater is wasted as heat is slowly lost due to radiant heat loss from the storage tank. Tankless water heaters operate entirely on demand only when hot water is needed. Since there is no hot water storage, thermal heat loss is almost completely eliminated; you can reduce water heating costs as much as 50%.

With a tankless, you may have some additional maintenance, depending on the mineral content and quality of your water; you may need to flush your unit’s heat exchanger annually. It is also advised to install a sediment filter on your incoming water line.

Our skilled and professional plumbers can help you choose the water heater that is right for your home or business. We can complete your tank or tankless water heater installation efficiently so that you and your family can enjoy doing everything you need to do with hot water. We also perform tankless heater maintenance and repairs on all makes and models of heaters. Your complete satisfaction is our top priority.

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